Computation of shock wave diffraction at a ninety degrees convex edge

This paper presents a numerical study of shock wave diffraction at a sharp ninety degrees edge, using an explicit second-order Godunov-type Euler scheme based upon the solution of a generalized Riemann problem (GRP). The Euler computations produce flow separation very close to the diffraction edge, leading to a realistic development of the separated shear layer and subsequent vortex roll-up. The diffracted shock wave, and the secondary shock wave, are both reproduced well. In addition a pair of vortex shocks are shown to form, extending well into the vortex core.This article was processed using Springer-Verlag T_EX Shock Waves macro package 1990.